During a Feb. 18 work session, the Eugene City Council failed to pass a motion on an ordinance that would have penalized drivers for donating to pedestrians from inside their vehicles.
The ordinance would have amended Sections 5.170 and 5.990 of Eugene’s code to prohibit drivers from reaching out of vehicles at a right-of-way to give items to pedestrians. Violators would face a $50 fine.
The ordinance was first proposed in 2019 after Springfield passed a similar measure, but it failed on a 2-6 vote. It was reintroduced in 2025 and prompted a public hearing, where four people spoke in favor of the ordinance and one opposed it.
During the work session, the mayor and all councilors except Ward 6 Councilor Greg Evans were present.
Supporters said the ordinance is intended to promote traffic safety and discourage pedestrians from entering roadways. Some councilors argued the measure would disproportionately punish Eugene’s unhoused population who panhandle.
“If it really was about public safety, why has no one addressed the fact that several people have died on bicycles in right-of-ways in the past year, and we have not spoken out about that?” Ward 7 Councilor Lyndsie Leech said.
Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner also attended the work session and spoke in support of the ordinance.
“I actually, quite honestly, blame the motorist more than I do the pedestrian for enticing someone into the roadway,” Skinner said. “They’re likely not going to pass up that opportunity for money and/or food.”
Ward 5 Councilor Mike Clark introduced a motion to postpone action until all councilors were present to vote. That motion failed 3-4.
The motion to pass the ordinance failed 2-5.
